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“Yes. I think our location provides a rare opportunity to become something more than a throughway from the interstate not far south. Traffic has been growing in the last few years, but no one is stopping. Why?”
“Because we don’t have the appeal of a city like Harrisburg or Philadelphia,” he says knowingly.
“Yes, but not for lack of amenities. We have the hotels, the attractions, the entertainment. We’re not just rich in beautiful nature but an art culture that could compete with many larger cities. So what makes us so unappealing?”
“Our reputation for violent crime,” the mayor states, his eyebrow cocking ironically as his gaze turns pointed.
“Exactly, a reputation well earned from decades of a few reputable families taking advantage of their positions of power to manipulate the system. No one moves here because, regardless of where they land, they’ll be caught in the middle of some territory dispute or unwittingly challenging the authority of one man’s pride or another.”
“I feel as though you’re about to get to the point,” the mayor says dryly.
Leaning forward so my elbows rest on my knees, I cut to the chase. “I believe in the potential for collaboration. Our town deserves the best, and I’m willing to offer my support to ensure that happens.”
He arches an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. “Support? From someone like you? What would that look like?”
I take a deep breath, choosing my words carefully. “I have a proposal. My men have skills, resources, and a commitment to order. I’ve been investing heavily in trying to break the mold of several powerful families who are running our town solely to their benefit and liking. But it occurred to me that we could work together to achieve a more efficient system. I’m willing to bring my men into the fold, to work as an extension of your government, to ensure the safety and prosperity of this town.”
Mayor Romney leans back in his chair, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the polished mahogany. “And what’s in it for you, Leo?” His question is shrewd, cutting through my attempt to appeal to his more idyllic side.
I need to play my cards carefully. “I’ve been pouring considerable sums into maintaining the current state of affairs. If I can have a more direct say in law enforcement, it would not only benefit me but also ensure a more secure and orderly town. Think of it as a win-win.”
He considers my words, his eyes never leaving mine. After what feels like an eternity, he nods. “An interesting proposition. I must admit my police force has long been incapable of putting an end to the back alley crime that plagues this town. But I need more than just words. I need to see tangible results to make me believe you can actually help protect Piovosa.”
It’s not a flat-out no, something I’d been prepared for. And I wait patiently as he seems to mull it over.
“We could have your men provide security for a few of our government events,” the mayor suggests, leaning back in his chair. “It would be a great way to test the waters, build trust.”
I nod, seizing the opportunity. “That sounds like a solid plan. Let’s start with a test run.”
The mayor’s eyes narrow slightly as if he’s gauging my sincerity. Considering this is a scheme to put a buffer between my own plans and the men who could lock me away if I’m not careful, it seems the mayor has a strong enough nose to sniff out suspicious activity. It’s only a question of how well I can play my role.
“There’s a charity ball the Friday after this coming one,” he says after another long pause. “How about your men coordinate with the Piovosa police force to provide security for that? It would be a good chance for us to observe how well they handle the responsibility.”
A charity ball? “Perfect.” I maintain a composed expression as I accept the offer.
“And, of course, I would hope you and your lovely wife will be able to attend the event as my guests,” he says, with an undercurrent of expectation.
“We would be honored,” I agree, but a twinge of discomfort grips me when I remember Tia’s twisted ankle.
The mayor seems to notice my hesitation. “Something wrong?” he asks, a glimmer of suspicion in his eyes.
“No, no, not at all,” I say quickly. “It’s just that, unfortunately, Tia met with a little accident. She twisted her ankle, and the doctor advised her to rest. So I’m not sure she’ll be able to attend. It’s a shame. I have no doubt she would have loved a charity ball. And it would have given me an excuse to dance with her again. Plus, I know how much she enjoys your family.”
The mayor’s suspicion intensifies, and I know that it, along with his hesitation to work with me, stems from my reputation for violence. Not that I can blame him. I’ve only earned this opportunity through the mayor’s affection for Tia. From the looks of it, he suspects me of hurting her.
“That’s terrible. I hope she’s alright,” he says pointedly, the undercurrent of tension growing.
I need to act quickly to salvage the situation and avoid the mayor suspecting I’m hiding something. Scrambling to recover our rapport, I assure him, “She’s in good spirits. Just less than happy with being told to take it easy. My wife isn’t one for idle bed rest.”
The mayor humphs, though, from the glimmer in his eye, I know he’s thinking about Tia’s lively energy—the way she overcame a supposed bloody nose to finish dinner with his family just days ago. And the memory sparks an idea in my mind.
“Actually, why don’t you all join us for dinner?” I suggest. “Tia can share her rather daring adventure, and you can put your mind at ease that she’s recovering safely. I’m sure she would love the company while she’s housebound as well.”
After a moment’s contemplation, Mayor Romney’s expression softens, and he nods. “Dinner sounds like a wonderful idea. It would be good to catch up with Tia. The poor girl seems to have an uncommon amount of misfortune.”
You have no idea, I think darkly as I consider how much of a misfortune meeting me has proven to be. Once upon a time, I didn’t think twice about using Tia without concerning myself with the consequences she might face. Now, it seems that despite my best efforts to give her comfort and a sense of peace in her new role, she’s determined to find trouble.
“We’re available this evening,” the mayor suggests, cutting into my train of thought. “Will that work?”
